David M Giltner has written two books intended for scientists who are working in the private sector:
It's a Game, not a Formula
How to Succeed as a Scientist Working in the Private Sector
Scientists tend to look for the 'right way' to do things. We are used to chasing after formulas and theories that describe the behavior of the universe, and this expectation that there is a 'right answer' tends to permeate much of what we do.
But the world outside the controlled environment of the science lab doesn't work that way. The most successful scientists who enter the private sector approach their work as if it were a game, with rules that need to be followed but with no clear 'right way' to do things. They take risks, make decisions quickly, and don't overthink things.
This book presents valuable insights from experienced and successful industry PhD scientists who have shared their valuable stories to help you succeed in the private sector and build that rewarding career you are seeking.
Buy directly from the publisher or on Amazon.
Can you be successful in the private sector?
We hear a lot about the 'transferrable skills' that will make you employable in industry. And these are very important.
But no one tells you that what matters most is that you have the right working habits! Habits such as these:
- Help the company make money
- Figure out what matters and what doesn't
- Be effective, not smart!
- Decide quickly with limited data
- Persuade others to follow you
Turning Science into Things People Need
Turning Science into Things People Need - Voices of Scientists in Industry
My book "Turning Science into Things People Need" explores the journeys of 10 scientists who left the research lab to pursue careers in industry.
Driven by a desire to see their work give tangible results in months rather than decades, these people have all built exciting careers in a wide variety of roles.
Five of these scientists are successful entrepreneurs, starting their own successful companies!
What is working industry really like?
Get advice directly from people who get up in the morning and can't wait to get to work. Learn about the following jobs:
- Director of Product Development (read excerpt)
- Product Manager (read excerpt)
- Reliability Engineer (read excerpt)
- Senior Optical Engineer (read excerpt)
- Process Development Engineer (read excerpt)
- Mergers and Acquisitions Program Manager (read excerpt)
- Entrepreneur (read excerpt)
- CEO (read excerpt)
“I think your book is a good idea. People talk about the transition from science to engineering or going from academia to industry, but no one has actually put together any research on the topic”